Barunga Festival
Traditional and popular parties · Barunga (Northern Territory), Australia
The festival
80 kilometres south-east of Katherine, the Barunga Bagala community hosts one of the most beloved indigenous festivals in the Northern Territory, from June 5 to 8, 2026, each long weekend in June.
Re-launched in February 2026 by Bagala Aboriginal Corporation, traditional owners, the festival — without tobacco or alcohol — awaits a record influx of some 5,000 people, more than 40 sports teams (Australian football, basketball, softball) and a First Nations scene where Troy Cassar-Daley, Frank Yama and Emily Wurramara cross. It was here that the Barunga Declaration, presented to Prime Minister Bob Hawke, called for a treaty with Aboriginal peoples in 1988.
Good to know
The official website announces June 5-7, the ticket office and the press 5-8 June: wide dates retained.